In the winter of 2020, the life of 18-year-old John Russell 'JohnJohn' Bruso was tragically cut short in Niagara Falls, New York. On the afternoon of December 1st, Bruso was sitting in the passenger seat of a parked car near the intersection of 19th Street and Welch Avenue when he was shot multiple times.
A student at Niagara Wheatfield High School, Bruso was in his senior year and looking forward to graduating with the class of 2021.
He had aspirations of attending barber school with the dream of one day owning his own barbershop. Known affectionately as 'JohnJohn,' he was a dedicated and talented dancer who captivated audiences with his performances. He was an employee at Charleys Philly Steaks in the Fashion Outlet Mall and enjoyed staying active and spending time with his family.
The investigation into the shooting quickly led Niagara Falls Police to a suspect. On December 4, 2020, just days after the incident, police arrested 18-year-old Arion Darrell at a home in the 600 block of 7th Street in the city. Darrell was taken into custody without incident and subsequently charged with murder in the second degree and criminal possession of a weapon. He was awaiting arraignment in Niagara Falls City Court following his arrest.
